Five-Axis HMC Designed for Small Aerospace Parts

Makino’s a61nx-5E five-axis horizontal machining center is well-suited for the production of complex aluminum aerospace parts, including small components with 3D contours. According to the company, the HMC combines the reliability of the smaller nx-series HMCs with the added speed of the larger MAG-series machines. The machining center’s 14,000-rpm spindle provides 240 Nm of torque and 30 kW of output. Other spindle configurations are available, including a 14,000-rpm high-torque version and a 20,000-rpm spindle for faster speeds. The machine can also be equipped with a 24,000-rpm high-performance core-cooled spindle providing up to 80 kW of duty-rated (60 kW continuous) output.

The HMC features a twin-direct-drive rotary table design with a three-point bed casting and tiered column structure for increased rigidity. It can accommodate workpieces measuring 600 × 385 mm (23.62" × 15.15"). The X-, Y- and Z-axis travels measure 730 × 730 × 680 mm (28.7" × 28.7" × 26.8"); linear acceleration is 1 G on the X and Y axes, and 0.8 on the Z axis. A closed-loop thermal management system ensures reliability and accuracy by removing heat generated by the direct-drive rotary table motors. A ring-style ATC60 tool magazine is standard; matrix magazines with capacities of 133, 218 or 313 are available as options. A pallet changer enables part loading and unloading via a 45-degree pivot point that transfers pallets from a vertical to a horizontal orientation. The pallet changer is compatible with Makino’s MMC-R robotic fixture plate distribution system for automation.